Halo: Campaign Evolved Remake - A Love Letter or a Cash Grab?
Halo: Combat Evolved holds a special place in many hearts. It's more than just a game; it's a memory, a journey, and for some, a turning point in their lives. The announcement of a remake, Halo: Campaign Evolved, has sparked a debate. Is it a love letter to the original, or a cash grab?
The remake is set to launch on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S. It promises:
- High-definition visuals
- Refined controls
- Two-player splitscreen co-op on console
But is it necessary? Microsoft already has the Master Chief Collection. Is this a desperate attempt to make money, or is there a significant audience that wants this?
Rebuilt from the Ground Up
The remake has been "rebuilt from the ground up" on Unreal Engine 5. It includes:
- Modernized visuals
- Refined controls
But does it stay true to the original? The answer is not clear.
Concerns from the Original Team
Jaime Griesemer, level designer on the original Halo: Combat Evolved, has expressed his concerns. He points out that the remake changes the balance of encounters. For example, in the infamous encounter in The Silent Cartographer level, players can now take the Warthog up to steamroll the Hunters. This was not possible in the original game. Griesemer explains that he intentionally placed rocks in the way to make players fight on foot. The remake changes this, and it's not for the better.
Griesemer also notes that the remake makes the game "slicker" but less interesting. He points to changes like:
- Reload speeds
- No health packs
- Falling damage
These changes may make the game easier, but they also make it less engaging.
Support from the Co-Creator
On the other hand, Marcus Lehto, co-creator of the Halo universe and Master Chief designer, is enthusiastic about the remake. He says it looks and feels genuine. He's happy to see Halo: Combat Evolved in this new light.
Who is This Remake For?
It's a question that's hard to answer. The fathers of the series seem to be in disagreement about the need for such a remake. Halo Studios community director, Brian Jarrard, seems to think it's for PlayStation fans. But is that enough?
The Halo franchise has been a standard-bearer for a whole console empire. It's a series that has matured many gamers from fledgling to full-fat devotees. The question is, will this remake do the same? Or will it leave behind the fans who grew up with it?